Why Your Child Needs YOU!
Parent Involvement in Child Therapy
So you’ve decided to bring your child to therapy and are not sure what's going to happen next. First of all, you rock! You are doing what it takes to meet your child’s needs, and that should be celebrated!
Your Role in the Therapeutic Process
It's important to note that you as the parent are just as much a part of the therapeutic process as your child. As their primary caregiver, your child relies on you for so many things, but most importantly, they rely on you for safety and comfort. Therapy is new and maybe even a little scary for your kiddo. They are going to need your support and reassurance to navigate through this transition. Whether it’s offering encouraging words, a big hug at the end of every session, or giving them some much-needed space, your child will appreciate the positive support you provide.
How to Prepare Your Child For Therapy:
Put in some prep work! Preparing your child in advance about where they are going, what they will be doing (in simple terms), and even sharing their therapist's name before arriving will help build trust, strengthen your child’s therapeutic relationship, and lay the foundation for healthy communication moving forward. To support this, we often send home a social story about play therapy that includes pictures of our office, the therapist, and information about what they may do in a session. Alternatively, you can discuss these details with your child to help them feel more prepared.
Keep an Open Line of Communication With Your Child’s Therapist!
Your child’s therapist wants you to feel comfortable throughout the process and most likely they want to collaborate with you! NEVER hesitate to reach out with questions, concerns, or updates. Keeping track of behaviors, challenges and wins at home and sharing them with your therapist can provide valuable insights and enhance the therapy process.
Therapy Is Your Child’s Safe Space
This one can feel hard, but let therapy stay in therapy. Confidentiality is a key part of the therapeutic experience. It’s natural to be curious, but limiting the questions you ask your child about their therapy sessions helps maintain their sense of safety. Instead of asking, “What did you talk about?” try saying, “I’m here if you ever want to share.” If your child does choose to open up, give them your full attention and validate their feelings.
Additionally, avoid discussing your child’s therapy progress or struggles in front of them, whether at home, in the waiting room, or with others. Even well-intentioned conversations can make children feel self-conscious. If you have concerns, your therapist is always available for private discussions.
Play Therapy Sessions May Not Always Be Fun
While play therapy involves games, toys, and creative expression, it isn’t just about playing. Some sessions may be filled with joy and laughter, while others may bring up difficult emotions. This is completely normal. Growth and healing often come with moments of discomfort, and some sessions may leave your child feeling tired, frustrated, or emotional. This is why we advise against parents asking “Did you have fun?”.
If your child has a hard session, it doesn’t mean therapy isn’t working. It often means they’re doing the important work of processing emotions. Validate their feelings by saying, “I know therapy can feel tough sometimes.”
Bringing Play Therapy Outside The Playroom:
Therapy sessions are just one piece of the puzzle—what happens at home plays a crucial role in your child's progress. By bringing play therapy techniques into your daily routines, you can reinforce the skills they are building in sessions and create even more opportunities for growth.
Trying new approaches can make a big difference in your child’s progress, but we understand—it’s not always easy. When life at home already feels overwhelming, adding something new can feel like a lot. Your therapist may suggest different strategies, and some may feel unfamiliar at first. That’s okay! Change takes time, and small shifts can lead to big progress.
When introducing something new, be patient. Children thrive on predictability, so consistency is key. Clear expectations help reinforce progress, even when it doesn’t seem immediate. If something isn’t working, don’t be discouraged—talk with your child's therapist about adjustments that better fit your family’s needs.
Growth isn’t always a straight path. Some days will feel like breakthroughs, while others may feel like setbacks. Trust the process, be patient with yourself, and know that progress is happening even when it’s hard to see. Parenting isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up, learning, and growing alongside your child. You’re doing an incredible job!
You are an integral part of your child’s therapy! Although it may seem daunting, your clinical team is here to support you while you support your kiddo. With time, you will notice immeasurable changes within your child, and the relationship you have with your child.
If you’re ready to start this journey or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the next step in supporting your child’s growth and healing!
